Makeup In The 1920’s

Face

Prior to the 1920’s, a very pale, pasty face was popular, however changes in social attitudes in the 20’s  made it acceptable for women to be outdoors so the face shade changed to a more natural hue.It was rumoured that Coco Chanel fell asleep in the sun and made the tan look very popular!!! Having rouge toned cheeks was also very rampant.

Actress Playing Coco-Chanel

Lips

For the lips, lLipstick was applied in a curved shape on the upper lip, this was fashionable and was referred to as  “Cupid’s-Bow”. Also the lower lip was exaggerated a bit and the width of the lips was de-emphasized a little, red coloured lipstick was usually used and the texture was matte.Beauty marks were occassionally used

Example of cupids bow lips

Eyes

For the eyes, mascara was avaliable but only in  cake, tube and wax(it was called eyelash darkner),this was applied to a brush. There was even waterproof formulations available.To curl and lengthen lashes there was a curler called the Kurlash. Unfortunately, it was very difficult to use.

Eyelash Darkner in Wax

1926 Actress Viola Dana Advertising Eyelash Darkner For Maybelline

For the eyes, Kohl eyeliner was smudged over the entire lid with petroleum jelly. Grays and browns were very popular.

Eyebrows

Eyebrows were usually very thin and almost invisible. They also sloped, downward sloping and inked with black or brown eyeliner.

1920's eyebrows

One lady that really looked good in the 20’s was Josephine Baker. She was one of the best-known entertainers in both France and much of Europe in the 1920’s. Her makeup was always intact.

Josephine Baker

Ms Baker looking very 1920's with really thin eyebrows, dark eyelashes and red lipstick...flawless!